Expert: Chip Aki - 6/26/2007

Question
i am recovering from a herniated disc. what is the lightest weighted ball i could throw and still score well i am 66 5ft 10 174 and averaged 195-200 with the storm xfactor.  would the tropicballs work if i wanted to experiment with a lighter ball do you know any more about bowling with back problems i.e. should i use a back brace can you recommend any balls thanks in advance

Answer
I would ask the doctor about the back brace.  If you can use your legs more than your back while bowling, your back should be fine.  Most of the time, a bowler will bend too far forward at the waist instead of bending the knee of the sliding leg.  This will place a lot of strain on the back.  Just as you use your legs when lifting a heavy box, you need to use your legs when throwing the bowling ball.

I know some bowlers that are successful with 12 pound bowling balls.  A tropical storm would be a rather inexpensive ball to try first.  For the price, they have a lot of potential.  The next ball I would take a look at would be the Jolt.  If the price difference is not an issue, it would be a bit stronger.

Good luck,
Chip